Principal's Message & School Philosophy

I am both honoured and excited to commence my role as the Principal of Canberra Secondary School. Embarking on this journey with each of you is a privilege, and I am committed to steering our school with purpose and passion. Education, to me, is not just a destination but an ongoing expedition of growth and discovery. Our collective journey at Canberra is one of continuous learning, adaptation, and progress.

In my leadership journey, I firmly adhere to the belief that we should be "First to SERVE, then to LEAD." Leadership, in its truest form, is a commitment to serving others before oneself. Through service, we will build a foundation of trust, collaboration, and mutual respect. Together, we will continue to foster a culture where Gratitude, Respect, and Compassion are lived experiences for all our students and staff.

Moreover, I am guided by the conviction that we must always leave a place better than we found it, ensuring that our actions contribute to the continual improvement and enrichment of our students and staff. In Canberra, we are anchored in values and purpose, recognising that the foundation of our educational community lies in the shared commitment to uphold essential principles. These values will serve as the compass directing our actions and decisions.

At the heart of our mission are the beliefs that we value every student. We firmly acknowledge that every student wants to learn and that, indeed, all can learn. It is our duty to foster an environment where these aspirations can flourish, creating a culture of curiosity, engagement, and achievement.

As we navigate the changing landscape for our students, characterised by accelerated technological changes, an increasingly fragmented world, and an evolving social fabric, we must prepare our students to connect, create, and collaborate. It is our responsibility to equip them with the skills and mindset necessary to thrive in this dynamic environment.

Our school programmes are designed with a clear focus to instil in our students a passion for lifelong learning, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving world. Our programmes are inclusive and tailored to meet the needs of every Canberran, recognizing and celebrating their unique perspectives, abilities, and backgrounds. The well-being of our students is paramount. We are dedicated to creating a supportive and nurturing environment that promotes not only academic success but also the overall health and happiness of each student.

Recognising the rapid evolution of our education landscape and workplaces, we are preparing our students for the dynamic future that awaits them. Our teachers, the guiding forces in this journey, will embark on Professional Development programmes, including the Teacher Work Attachment Plus (TWA+) programme. This aims to equip our educators to guide students through the volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) challenges that lie ahead. The TWA+ programme, with its learning journeys and work attachments in diverse sectors, will broaden our teachers' perspectives, enriching their teaching and empowering them to guide students in making informed choices about their educational and career pathways.

I am excited about the promising future awaiting Canberra Secondary School. As we embark on this collective journey, let us embrace the path ahead with open hearts and minds. Our shared commitment to service, leadership, and leaving a lasting impact will serve as our guiding light, leading us towards new horizons of achievement. Together,  we will seize these opportunities for growth, learning, and collaboration, navigating the ever-changing landscape of education to prepare our students for success in the world beyond.

Yours faithfully

Mr Leong Kok Kee

Principal